I think refs have a hard time from the media. They analyse their performance using super slow-mo replays and criticise anything they possibly can. They seem to forget that the ref has to make the decisions in real time at real speed (and don't forget that the players are always out to con the ref as well).
My favourite piece of criticism was from Andy Gray. The referee made a contentious decision which, after reviewing post-match with the aid of slow-mo etc, was proven to be absolutely correct. Andy Gray complained that he couldn't understand how the referee had come to that decision! Apparently, not only does the referee have to make the right decision, he has to do it in a way which is wholly explicable to Andy Gray!
I agree with you, Sparrow, about Alan Green, although he is no where near as annoying as Mark Lawrenson (IMHO). His favourite trick is to baldly state something like, "That was a foul" and then when the replay clearly shows he was wrong he just says, "Yes" as if it confirms what he said rather than
proving the exact opposite. Honestly, how I've managed to not put my foot through the TV when he's commentating is beyond me
